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Different people have different needs, but what should connect them all is the need for being successful and possibly earning more money. However, when people are set for this, they should be looking first of all for a financial advisor to help them manage their income and their financial assets.

First of all, when you consider the need of a financial advisor, it’s also great if you could ask for recommendations from people who have used this kind of services. Whatever worked for them might also work for you – not necessarily in the same course of action, but the advisor who helped them might also be able to help you too.

It’s just a matter of finding the right person to help you with your finances, so here’s how you can find it and what questions to ask.

Fiduciary – Yes or No?

Being a fiduciary means that the person you have chosen is one who has less interest for his own good and more interest for the good of his client. This means that he or she will have to place the interest of the client ahead his own interest. Something else that is about the fiduciary persons is that they will tell you what their fees are and the ways in which they are compensated. Of course, you will also know about their possible conflict of interests, which might influence your decision for his or her services.

Prices – High or Low?

The price is important, and you need to know it from the start. Ask the financial planner in what manner is the price set. You will need to know if there is an initial planning fee, or if the planner asks for a percentage for what he or she manages – the assets, or if the planner earns some money if he/she sells you something specific. This is important, because you need to know the price and you also need if the planner is determined to sell you different things.

Certification – Yes or No?

You need to choose someone according to your own needs, but that persons should also have a license, credentials or a certain certification that recommends him or her for this job. This will make a huge difference if you only need someone to manage your money or if you want to make an investment, because each advisor has different qualifications.

Services – What Type?

Ask about what kind of services the planner offer does. Each one has different services, and you need to know the difference between a simple financial planning or an investment advice. It’s best to choose exactly what you want, as these are quite different.

Clients – Something Special?

Everyone has his own specializations, and it’s better to find your own niche when you look for a financial advisor. Depending on your interest, you will be able to find something like an advisor who is specialized in charities, responsible investments or investments for those who are newly wed or – unfortunately for them – recently divorced. You will also be able to find advisors specialized in business or other areas of interests.

Sample Plan – Yes or No?

Ask the planner if he or she can show you a sample plan for what you need. It doesn’t have to be something specific for your needs, but you need it to make an idea about what to expect if you work with that person for a longer period of time. You’ll be at least able to understand better what he or she is talking about if you have a sample that you can look into.

Approach – What Type?

Usually, when people approach a financial advisor they also know a little about this area. If you are looking for something specific, ask the planner what his or her approach is. There are different approaches, and while some will like to use the low-cost funds, there are also other types of philosophies. Financial planning is not about trading stocks, but it’s about making the right investment based on each person’s situation.